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News Release

Readout of Meeting Between Secretary Hagel And Israeli Minister of Defense Moshe Ya’alon

Pentagon Press Secretary George Little provided the following readout:

“Secretary Hagel hosted Israeli Minister of Defense Moshe Ya’alon today at the Pentagon during the minister’s first official visit to Washington since taking office earlier this spring.

“Minister Ya’alon flew to the Pentagon in an MV-22 from Marine Corps Base Quantico and Secretary Hagel greeted him at the Pentagon helo pad. In April, Secretary Hagel announced that the United States would make the V-22 available to Israel as part of an unprecedented package of advance military capabilities that will increase Israel's qualitative military edge. At Quantico, the minister and his delegation had the opportunity to experience some of the unique capabilities of the Osprey as Israel plans to incorporate the aircraft into future military planning.

“The leaders discussed the elections occurring today in Iran. They reaffirmed that the United States and Israel will continue to work together to counter threats posed by Iran and remain prepared for a range of contingencies.

“Secretary Hagel and Minister Ya’alon also discussed the ongoing violence in Syria and condemned the use of chemical weapons by the Assad regime. Both noted the complexities of the situation and resolved to remain in close contact and continue to share information to support the defense of Israel.”